Field of Flags will support Blooming Prairie’s fight against cancer

For the third year in a row, Blooming Prairie will be the site of a moving display that’s captured the attention – and support – of the local community. 
In 2012, the Blooming Prairie Cancer Group began a unique initiative, which they called “The Field of Flags,” in conjunction with their annual Blooming Prairie Cancer Group Auction. All were welcome to purchase a flag in honor or memory of someone who has been touched by cancer, and the flags were later displayed just east of Highway 218. Each year, the tradition has continued to grow. This year, the Field of Flags will fly in Blooming Prairie once again. 
As the pink flags wave in the wind, they create a powerful visual image that symbolizes the fight against cancer and the disease’s far-reaching impact. “Cancer affects everybody,” said Cheri Krejci, a member of the Blooming Prairie Cancer Group. 
Krejci is all too familiar with the devastation that cancer can cause. Some of her closest relatives and friends were diagnosed with cancer, and Krejci herself is also a cancer survivor. She’s heard others say that the Field of Flags is a powerful reminder that the fight is far from over, but that there is still hope. “To me, it means that we keep fighting,” Krejci said, of the flags. 
During the first year of the fundraiser, Krejci says that the group rented 50 poles from the Zumbrota Legion for the occasion, and that the flags sold out quickly. The following year, Dennis Heimerman, owner of Metal Services of Blooming Prairie, Inc., donated materials and made 150 poles for the group. Again, the flags sold quickly. 
Last year, Krejci says that the group had a total of 200 poles available, which were all sold again. This year, there will be a total of 250 flags available. The sight, she says, often inspires awe from those passing through the community. Krejci shares the story of one woman who passed through Blooming Prairie every day as she battled the disease. “She said the flags made her feel like she wasn’t alone,” Krejci said. 
The flags have attracted the attention of nearly everyone who drives past them. “For people who haven’t seen it, it’s very cool,” said Krejci. “All (the flags) are in memory or honor of loved ones. It’s moving and heart-warming to walk through the field and read the names.” 
All are welcome to purchase a flag. Flags cost $10 each, and volunteers will put the flags up on Sunday, Aug. 30. “We have lots of flags available yet, but we would like to have them all sold by Aug. 30,” Krejci said. To purchase a flag, contact any Blooming Prairie Cancer Group committee members. 
The Field of Flags is just one part of the cancer group’s cancer benefit, which will take place on Friday, Sept. 11, and Saturday, Sept. 12 this year. This year also marks the 15th annual auction. Thus far, the group has been able to donate over $500,000 to benefit cancer research, in addition to providing assistance to people dealing with cancer through the local “Community Fund.” 
This year, the two-day event will feature a live auction, early bird bingo, a performance by Stix of Fury, the Cancer Memorial Walk, haircuts, games and more. Two weeks prior to the event, the group will also launch their “Paint Blooming Prairie Pink” campaign. Read more about the event upcoming editions of The Steele County Times.